Heaven on Earth: Visiting Mauritius

Mark Twain once wrote, 'Mauritius was made first and then heaven, heaven being copied after Mauritius'. It’s hard to imagine a more compelling visage of heaven than Mauritius: sapphire-blue waters, powder-white sand, and a front row seat to one of the most beautiful views of the Indian Ocean. Download the Mauritius Travel Guide and Offline Map and experience heaven on Earth for yourself.

1.     Rodrigues

Barely touched by commercialization one would think they’ve traveled back in time on this tiny volcanic outcrop 600 kilometers away from the mainland. As the locals wold often tell you,”It is Mauritius of 25 years ago”. Here you’ll experience what true island time means and its time-warped vibe. It is beautiful forgotten world in some of the most remote corners of the globe.

2.     Eureka

There’s no better place to learn about Mauritius’ rich colonial history than in Eureka. The perfectly preserved Creole mansion was built in the 1830’s and stands today as a museum. Visiting Eureka is like stepping into a time machine and gives you incredible insight into the island’s vibrant plantation past.

3.     Vallée de Ferney

This 400-year-old forest is an important habitat for the Mauritius kestrel—one of the world’s most endangered raptors and visiting here is probably one of your best chance in ever seeing one. The guides take you along a 3-kilometer trail and at noon the staff feed the wild kestrels at the trailhead. As an important habitat for endemic species, Vallée de Ferney promises to be an important conservation and ecotourism area in the coming years.

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Reason Why Ko Samui is Food for the Soul

If you’re looking for the perfect relax and unwind after stressful months of work then Ko Samui is the perfect getaway you’ve been dreaming of. Wether you’e sun-seeking, dozing in a hammock, feasting on world-class cuisine, partying by the beach or discovering wellness in an exclusive spa, Ko Samui has it covered. Discover this island paradise with the Ko Samui Travel Guide and Offline Map

.1.     Pristine Beaches

It’s hard to resist the deep azure of the sky and the gentle lapping of warm waves on the satin sands of Ko Samui. The island’s beaches are as diverse as they get. Head to Coco Tam’s in Fisherman’s village for some cocktails and serious chillaxing, Chaweng Beach for some sunrise and people-watching, and Mae Nam Beach for some napping before witnessing a magnificent sunset in the west coast. If this reason alone doesn’t tempt you too book that ticket, we don’t know what will.

2.     Mouthwatering Cuisine

Dining in Ko Samui is remarkable in itself, but pair it with the island’s seductive sands then that’s takes it to top indulgence right there. From the simplest of Thai dishes to scorching regional curries, and plates hopping with flavor on seaside tables, you’ll definitely be spoiled for choice. Whatever suits your fancy, don’t ever overlook the flimsy wooden shack eateries. There you’ll find the best meals true-blue locals will not stop gushing about.

3.     Pamper Yourself

If you thought the beach and food was the ultimate pampering then you thought wrong. The island is filled to brim with places that will most definitely spoil your mind, body, and soul. Cleansing fasts, yoga, tai-chi, herbal steam treatments, and chakra-balancing—whatever you seek for full-on pampering, you’ll find it here. And while you’re at it ease away those aches and pains the island’s numerous spas can ease them to a next level of serenity.

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Discovering the Myth and Magic that Cyprus Has to Offer

While everyone scurries away to Italy, Greece or Spain during the warm European Summer everyone seems to overlook the beauty that Cyprus has to offer. Located in the eastern Mediterranean, it boasts romantic harbors, splendid ancient ruins and ruggedly stunning beaches that are for sure the stuff of myth and magic. Download the Cyprus Travel Guide and Offline Map now and discover this underrated summer destination.

1.  Pafos Archaeological Site

Nea Pafos is, ironically, the name given to the sprawling Pafos Archaeological Site, to the west of Kato Pafos. Nea Pafos was the ancient city of Pafos, founded in the late 4th century BC and originally encircled by massive walls. Despite being ceded to the Romans in 58 BC, it remained the center of all political and administrative life in Cyprus. It is most famed today for its mesmerizing collection of intricate and colorful mosaics based on ancient Greek myths.

2. Old Town

Wrapping around the Old Harbour, the diminutive Old Town is an atmospheric area for a wander. Its winding alleyways hold a jumble of abandoned stone buildings slowly slipping into disrepair, mixed with newer concrete additions. Modest remnants of Kyrenia's long history are speckled throughout the lanes. Two of the major monuments are the Ottoman-era Ağa Cafer Pașa Mosque and the dilapidated remains of 16th-century Chysopolitissa Church. There are also ancient Greco-Roman tombs on the road leading to Archangelos Michael Church.

3. Ayia Napa

Ayia Napa is a Mediterranean resort town on the southeast coast of Cyprus, known for its beaches. The town's main landmark is the storied, Venetian-era Ayia Napa Monastery, which stands in the central square of Plateia Seferi, surrounded by bars and clubs. Freshly caught seafood is served at Ayia Napa Harbour’s busy tavernas while adjoining Pantachou Beach offers a stretch of golden sand.

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Exploring Greece, the World's Most Ancient City

Probably the most go-to country during the European Summer, Greece has countless of adventure-filled destinations for both the young and young at heart. Step into the ring where Olympians first competed. Climb steps hewn out of stone to Meteora’s monasteries, perched atop towering rocks. Experience Greek culture at its best with passionate music, inspired cuisine, and thrill-seeking activities. Don't forget to download the Greece Travel Guide and Offline Map as you plan your trip.

1. Athens

Modern-day Athens is a mix of history and edginess. I lively urban bustles rings around the ancient landmarks, but don't be deceived, the city is pulsating with so much culture and tradition. The historical Acropolis towers over the city and is daily reminded of the Greek's heritage and its many transformations. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around Athens and visit its many open-air restaurants and bars whenever you feel like taking a break from all the sightseeing.

2. Ancient Delphi

Built on the slopes of Mount Parnassos, Ancient Delphi, is the most spiritual place out of all the archeological sites in Greece. Let the views of the Gulf of Corinth that extend into a valley of olive trees whisk you away to another time. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was regarded as the center of the world by Ancient Greeks and according to mythology, Zeus released two eagles at opposite ends of the world and they met were Ancient Delphi stood.

3. Acropolis

Considered as the most important ancient site in the Western World. And how can it not be when it is crowned by the renowned Parthenon. The Acropolis stands proud over Athens and is visible from almost everywhere within the city. Its monuments and sanctuaries of white Pentelic marble shine in the midday sun and gradually transform into a honey hue as sunset arrives.

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Reasons that will Compel You to Visit Palermo, Italy's Most Flamboyant City

The capital of Italy's picturesque island paradise is equally as stunning as the rest of the entire island itself. Here, you'll get to venture in 12th-century royal tombs, huge neoclassical theaters, and stroll around a 9th-century royal palace. But history and architecture aren't the only things that Palermo has to offer. Explore busy street markets and get lost in its endearing culture that will surely perk up your senses. Download the Palermo Travel Guide and Offline Map now and start your next adventure!

1.     Cappella Palatina

Palermo's extraordinary chapel is the city's top tourist attraction. And it's no wonder having been designed by Roger II in 1130. Located on the mid-level of Palazzo dei Normanni's three-tiered loggia, prepare to be awestruck with its glittering gold mosaics, inlaid marble floors, and wooden muqarnas ceiling. The latter is considered a masterpiece Arabic-style honeycomb carving reflecting Norman Sicily's cultural complexity.

2.      Teatro Massimo

Can you imagine walking into a palatial neoclassical opera house that took 20 years to complete? Well, imagine no more. At Europe's second-largest opera house located in Palermo, you'll get to visually experience first-hand it richly decorated interiors. And if you're a fan of the Godfather series of movies then you'll be extra thrilled to know that the ending scene of The Godfather: Part III was filmed within its walls.

3.     Mercato di Ballarò

What better way to experience the culture of a certain city than to explore its markets? Several blocks southeast of the Palazzo dei Normanni is Palermo's busiest market. It's so busy that you literally it comes alive with its throbbing vibrancy from the early morning to the evenings. Mercato di Ballarò is a fascinating at best and the certainly the epitome of street life. Here you'll find everything you need for cheap, from Chinese products to fresh produce.

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There's More to Sardinia than its Picturesque Coastlines

Sardinian is the second largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and has nearly 2,000 kilometers of coastline. But beyond its famous sandy beaches and rugged landscapes, Sardinia also offers a mountainous interior crossed with hiking trails. Its landscape is dotted with thousands of mysterious Bronze Age stone ruins called Nuraghi. These ruins are shaped like beehives and one of the oldest and largest Nuraghi is said to date back to 1500 B.C. What are you waiting for? Take that trip to beautiful Sardinia with the Sardinia Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1.      Nuraghe Su Nuraxi

What's a trip to Sardinia without visiting its sole UNESCO World Heritage Site and the island's most famous Nuraghi. The Su Nuraxi is a 1500 B.C. tower. It once stood on its own but was later incorporated into a fortified compound. Many of the neighboring buildings were erected in the Iron Age and this makes the beehive of circular interlocking buildings that tumble down the hillside. The Nuraxi tower, the oldest part of the complex, originally rose to a height of 18.6m and had three floors.

2.      Alghero

Like the rest of Italy, Sardinia is home to many medieval cities, but Alghero is probably one of the best on the island. Its picturesque historic center is one of the best preserved in Sardinia and is a great place to wind down and relax with an abundance of restaurants and bars to choose from. It is enclosed by robust, honey-colored sea walls; it's a tightly knit enclave of cobbled lanes, Gothic palazzi and cafe-lined piazzas. Alghero makes an ideal place to stay between exploring the beaches and the nearby Riviera del Corallo.

3.      Costa Smeralda

Famous for its brilliant green-blue waters, Costa Smeralda or the Emerald Coast's beauty has drawn millionaires, royals, and business moguls to its coastline. Starting at the Golfo di Cugnana, the Costa stretches 55 kilometers northwards to the Golfo di Arzachena. The most famous spot among the yachties is the Porto Cervo, although Porto Rotondo comes to a close second with its attractive seafront promenade.

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Corsica, the French Island of City Breakers

Dubbed as one of the pearls of the Mediterranean, Corsica Island has quite an animated history. Known to be "often conquered, never subdued" the island has been successively Pisan and Genovese and now French since 1768. The diversity of the island's scenery is outstanding and contributes to the multitudes of activities you can do. You can go sunbathing by the beach, scuba diving, and even sailing at sea or if you're the mountain adventurer type you can also go hiking on the infamous G20. Download the Corsica Island Travel Guide and Offline Map to help you map out your Corsica trip.

1.     G20

Infamously known as the toughest long distance trail in Europe, the G20 is not for the faint hearted. It traverses Corsica diagonally from north to south and is also one of the most beautiful mountain trails. It's 180 kilometers long with variations in heights of about 10,000 meters and can be walked in a whopping 15 days. The GR20 doesn't necessarily require any climbing techniques or perfect fitness level, but it does require a whole lot of confidence to walk over a variety of rugged terrain.

2.      The Ruins of Aleria

The capital of ancient Corsica was established in the 6th century B.C. by the Phocians after they were chased from the homeland by the Persians. They were subsequently conquered by the Romans in 259 B.C.; an easy feat considering the site is directly across the sea from Rome itself. In 1730 the city was captured by the troops of Pascal Paoli, who landed here in 1936 and crowned himself King of Corsica. The city was then lost and would only be rediscovered again between 1920 and 1951; archaeological digs continue to this day and have led to the discovery of a great many everyday objects: weapons, crockery, Etruscan vases, and money.

3.     Pinia

Known for its calm seas all year-long, Pinia is a famous spot for families to relax and enjoy the sun without much worry for their younger children frolicking by the beach. Surrounded by pine trees of the forest that is also named Pinia, the fine sandy beach stretches out over several kilometers. When you find the beach all too crowded for your liking during high season it's easy to escape by disappearing into the neighboring forest and taking a walk over to the lake.

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Must-See Islands in the Tropical Paradise of Seychelles

The island country of Seychelles consists of 115 islands that you can choose from. This little archipelago in the Indian Ocean is paradise on Earth filled with stunning beaches, powdery-white sandy shores lines, uninhabited islands, and kilometers of reefs. We warn you, it might be a difficult decision on which islands you'd like to visit as every single one holds its own special charm. But with the Seychelles Travel Guide and Offline Map rest assured that you'll be able to pick your little slice of paradise without a problem.

1.      Praslin Island

What is often dubbed as the "Garden of Eden", this island is only 12 kilometers long and 5 kilometers wide, but it has a plethora of things to offer. Take a dip in the most beautiful beaches on the entire Seychelles like Anse Lazio. It is considered as the best beach to visit and for good reason. The beach is bordered by large granite boulders making it postcard pretty. Praslin is also home to one of the famed UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Vallée de Mai. The reserve is full of lush natural palm trees preserved in almost its original state.

2.      La Digue

Even the tiny, La Digue, packs a punch when it comes offering the beauty of nature. With only 2,000 or so inhabitants it is the epitome of island life. You can expect to be completely relaxed with its slow pace and absolute silence. Signs of modern civilization like asphalt roads and tall buildings are absent and you can even see the occasional ox carts servicing as taxis. To preserve the calmness of the island getting around is exclusively done by foot or by bike.

3.      Mahé

Mahé is the biggest island of Seychelles and is home to 86 percent of the country's total population. You'd be surprised for such a small island it holds an international airport and the city of Victoria--the smallest capital city in the world. The island also offers a variety of entertainment options. You can even go hiking to the top of Seychelles' highest peak, the Morne Seychellois, which lies in the Morne Seychellois National Park.

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3 Towns you should visit in Cinque Terre

There are lots to see in Cinque Terre, after all, it is literally mean "five lands" for the five villages of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare along the Northern West coast of Italy on the Mediterranean Sea. Besides the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre is one of the most popular stretches of the Italian Riviera. The five towns are full of colorful houses and vineyards that sit on steep terraces, harbors are filled with fishing boats, and trattorias turn out seafood specialties along with the Liguria region’s famous pesto sauce. Enjoy your visit to Cinque Terre by downloading the Cinque Terre Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1.      Riomaggiore

You've probably seen pictures of it all over social media, the colorful tower houses overlooking a quaint, sheltered beach. Yes, that's Riomaggiore and is the second largest town in Cinque Terre. Some of the places to visit are the Port of Riomaggiore, Church of San Giovanni, the Guardiola, and the Centre for Environmental Education and Naturalistic Observation. It's also known for its locally-produced wine and is the hometown of the Wine Cooperative of the Cinque Terre region. A notable feature is also the Riomaggiore castle, it was once used as a lookout for Saracen incursions, but now offers lodging and is open for events.

2.      Manrola

Manrola might be one of the smallest towns, but it is rich in culture and is the oldest. This ancient Roman town is huddled atop a headland of dark rock. Asides from its picturesque beauty, it is known to attract visitors from all over Italy and the world for its Nativity scene with 300 life-sized statues made from recycled materials. The church that is dedicated to the Nativity was once used as a lookout tower.

3.      Monterosso

This town has one the of the more interesting architectures in the region. During the 11th century to protect the town from Saracen pirates and rival Pisans, fortifications were increased thus defending the people from attacks. Here' you'll find the Church of San Giovanni Battista and the Aurora Tower. The famous depiction of the Crucifixion by Van Dyck himself is housed in the monastery of Cappuccini, which is connected to the church of San Francesco.

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Be Enticed with Bali, Indonesia’s Island Paradise

The lush paradise of Bali is the most famous destination in Indonesia and here are the reasons why. And friendly reminder, download the Bali Travel Guide with Offline City Street Map beforehand so you can have an easier time exploring the island.

The Weather

Bali is heaven for people who love the sun. The island is located just eight degrees south of the equator which grants it the perfect tropical weather. The island enjoys an average of 12 to 13 hours of sunlight each day which makes it the ideal place for surfing, sunbathing, beach sports, and all other outdoor activities.

The Beaches

Bali is home to a variety of spellbindingly gorgeous beaches, and each one has its own distinct charm. The south side of the island is known for its sandy beaches, especially those in the Bukit peninsula that are hidden between limestone cliffs. The north side, on the other hand, is known for its remote beaches with calm waters that are perfect for soaking with the whole family.

The Temples

There are numerous complexes of mystical temples spread throughout the island of Bali, from the highest peaks to the lowest seashores. These temples are ancient and serve as a window to Bali’s rich and intriguing past. Even more impressive is that these temples are still fully functional today and many of them are still being used for various events and festivities.

Value for Money

Bali is one of the cheapest world-class destinations you can visit. Indonesia has continuously been plagued by inflation. It only takes one glance at the exchange rate to get a grasp of much devaluation the Indonesian rupiah (IDR), the Indonesian national currency, has suffered. Today, your 1 dollar can be exchanged for about 12,000 IRD. Yes, for a little over $83 you can be a millionaire in Indonesia. This pretty much means you can afford anything during your visit, from luxury lodging, to the best food, to the biggest shopping spree of your life. You can even go to the local street markets to utilize your haggling skills and get great stuff at insanely low prices.

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Top Attractions to Visit in Phuket, Thailand’s Largest and Most Popular Island

The island of Phuket has been heavily developed for tourism and has become a favorite destination for families thanks to the availability of generous group holiday packages. Here are the reasons why you need to check out Thailand’s most popular tourist destination. Get your Phuket Travel Guide with Offline City Street Map to help you out in planning your itinerary.

1.      Phang Nga Bay

Phang Nga Bay is famous for its towering limestone cliffs sticking out of the water but its most famous attraction is its Koh Ta-Pu. The charm and beauty of Koh Ta-Pu became world renowned when it was used as a major setting for the James Bond movie ‘The Man with the Golden Gun’. People started calling it James Bond Island ever since. If you love seeing different living creatures, the Phang Nga Bay Marine National Park will keep you enthralled with its numerous species of fish, amphibians, mangroves, reptiles, birds, and mammals. Swing by Koh Panyee, a Muslim fishing village impressively built entirely on stilts.

2.      Old Phuket Town

The old Phuket Town is the place to go if you want to immerse yourself in the island’s culture. Phuket architecture, cuisine, clothing, and more were greatly influenced by Chinese and Indians as the island used to be a major trading stop between China and India. Arab, Malay, and Portuguese traders also frequented it and left their own influences. Phuket Town is the largest town in the province and boasts a great selection of restaurants and cafes as well as awesome markets.

3.      Buddhist Temples

There are 29 vibrant Buddhist temples spread across the island. Among these temples, the Wat Chalong is the most popular, attracting thousands of tourists each year. The temple features a 60-meter tall pagoda and numerous gilt statues of two venerable monks who saved hundreds in the Tin Miners Rebellion of 1876. Today, the temple is known as a place of healing for both body and soul.

4.      Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi chain of six islands is one of most famous tourist spots in Thailand. Phi Phi’s white sandy beaches, turquoise blue waters, and intriguing rock formations have already been featured in countless local and international films. Take that ferry ride and enjoy ultimate relaxation in this exotic paradise.

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3 Foremost Reasons to Visit Madeira, the Paradise in the Middle of the Atlantic Ocean

Madeira is the favorite destination of many Europeans who want to escape the European winter. Its welcoming mild climate can warm hearts and bodies and it is only 978 kilometers or about a 90-minute plane ride from Lisbon. The archipelago of Madeira has four primary regions; the island of Madeira, the island of Porto Santo, the deserted islands, and the wild islands. Make sure you have the Madeira Travel Guide with Offline City Street Map so you don’t get lost. Here are a few reasons why you should definitely check out Madeira, the island voted as the world’s leading island destination in the world in the 2016 World Travel Awards.

1.      Nature

If you want to experience nature at its best then Madeira is the place to go. A visit to the Laurissilva Forest is a must. This subtropical rainforest is a UNESCO Natural Heritage of Humanity site and breathing in its fresh air is, by itself, an unforgettable experience. Historians believe that the island of Madeira has been around for more than 15 million years which is why it has such an extensive collection of flora and fauna. There are various ways you can explore Madeira such as walking, horseback riding, climbing, canyoning, mountain biking, geocaching, etc.

2.      Gastronomy

The food in Madeira is simply divine thanks to the fact that fresh ingredients are all around. The most popular foods in the archipelago are grilled Lapps, a variety of octopus and shrimp dishes, tuna steaks, and the Espetada (beef on a roasted spit with fried corn and bolo-do-caco). If you are looking for restaurants to visit here are the notable ones:

·         Restaurant II Gallo D’Oro at The Cliff Bay Hotel – has two Michelin stars and serves the best Mediterranean cuisine in the archipelago.

·         Maré Alta in Machico – specializes in fish and seafood.

·         Adega da Quinta Restaurante – specializes in local Madeira cuisine.

·         Ristorante Villa Cipriani at the Belmond Reid’s Palace Hotel – serves luxurious meals at luxurious prices.

3.      Water Activities

Madeira is perfect for people who love swimming and diving. Its waters have a temperature range of 19º to 24º which is ideal for diving, sailing, surfing, snorkeling, and many other aquatic activities. You can also go on a boat ride around the island; you might even encounter wild dolphins during the trip. Porto Moniz is home to numerous natural pools, all of which can be accessed for free. And Porto Santo has one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal.

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Outstanding Reasons to Visit Havana, a Premium Destination for Americans

The Cuban Government has made making it easier for Americans to visit the country a key part of its tourism campaign. There are now direct flights to Cuba from many cities in the United States. A lot of major American cities even have nonstop charter flights to Cuba. This alone makes it a good idea to visit this country. And if you will visit Cuba, might as well choose its capital and largest city, Havana. For easier time navigating Havana’s busy streets, get the Havana Travel Guide with Offline City Street Map. The Tourist Area of Old Havana (La Habana Vieja)

There is no better way to immerse yourself in the culture of Havana than taking a casual walk through the busy, crowded Calle Obispo from Calle Mercaderes, near Havana Harbor, west to Avenida Bélgica. You might even pick up souvenirs along the way as the sidewalks are littered with closet-sized shops selling refrigerator magnets, stuffed dolls, marionettes, t-shirts, and more.

You can also grab some street food as you go along with your stroll. An elote (corn on the cob on a stick) is a must try. You will also come across vendors selling sticky pastries and small Cuban sandwiches along the way. You might also encounter musicians giving free performances on a random street corner.

What a view! Havana Morro and the city Malecon seawall

Historical Havana

Cuba had its fair share of battles. It came under Spanish occupation for many years. Americans also tried to invade and conquer it numerous times. In Havana, you can find various fields, buildings, and promontories that were once battlefields. Take a walk on the walkway through the lawn facing the Malecón and the beautiful water beyond. Look for the historical markers that provide clues of when Cubans and Americans faced off using rifles and cannons.

1950s and 1960s American Cars

Havana is a paradise for automobile enthusiasts who have a taste for the antique. You will surely be amazed by how many vintage Buicks, Pontiacs, Chrysler Plymouths, Ford Fairlanes, Chevrolets, Dodges, and Studebakers parade the streets. Perfectly restored cars are often parked near hotels and plazas waiting for tourists who want to rent them.

Havana's Typical Old American Cars

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